The headlines were supposed to be about Williams’ bid for a record-equalling 24th grand slam title and Osaka trying to become Japan’s first slam winner, but instead an argument with umpire Carlos Ramos that escalated dominated the match.

Williams was furious when she was given a coaching violation early in the second set after a hand gesture from her coach Patrick Mouratoglou.

She was then docked a point for a second violation when she smashed her racket after dropping serve at 3-3. Continuing her argument with Ramos at the change of ends, Williams accused him of being a thief for taking a point away from her.

Ramos gave her a third violation, which resulted in a game penalty, putting Osaka 5-3 ahead. A tearful Williams argued her case with tournament officials but, although she held serve in the next game, Osaka served out the victory 6-2 6-4.

FOOTBALL

England failed to build on the momentum of reaching the World Cup semi-finals as Spain came from behind to win 2-1 win at Wembley in their UEFA Nations League opener.

In tonight’s games, France take on the Netherlands (22:45) and Wales are in action against Denmark (20:00).

CRICKET

Jos Buttler provided England’s seamers with the fresh impetus they needed on a hard-fought second day of the fifth Test against India at the Oval.

Buttler (89) marked his 28th birthday by top-scoring for the fourth time in England’s last five innings as he and Stuart Broad’s ninth-wicket stand of 98 under-pinned a recovery from 198-7 at start of play to 332 all out.

Elsewhere, India batsman Murali Vijay has agreed to join Essex for the rest of the English side’s County Championship campaign.

The 34-year-old played India’s first two Tests of their current tour of England, but was dropped after struggling in their heavy defeat at Lord’s.